Archive for the Concerts Category

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

Lordi @ The Catalyst Club, Santa Cruz, United States of America, 6/2 – 17

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized, United States of America 2017 with tags , , , on February 6, 2017 by Sara Hammerzmith

Because of the weather, and because we are lazy, we really only stayed in line for an hour. By the time we got to the venue, there was just one person there ahead of us, but as soon as we had come, more and more people started to come as well, so we really made it in exact time. We met up with some real cool people – Buddy, Alex and sadly a guy I never caught the name of and we had a good time catching up with each other!

Despite having the VIP which allowed us to enter the venue before the rest of the people, we decided to wait in line, because really, there is where all the fun is. That is where you meet new people.

When we finally got inside, we got our bracelets for the meet&greet and then got toward the stage…. or more like, pedalboards on the floor. The stage was so small that the supportband were forced to have just their drumset on stage, and the rest of them be on the floor in front of the stage. Interesting, huh? Like Galway, but instead of separate stages and all that shit.

Warcorpse

So, Warcorpse was the supportband for the night, an old school thrashmetalband from Santa Cruz. They were really good – and they put on a real good and energetic set getting you pumped for the show to come. Thank you guys!

warcorpse

After the band was done everybody waited for the band to get rid of their gear before everyone approached the stage. Unlike Galway, there wasn’t even a flightcase in front of the stage, making it real close and intimate. Crazy to think about. Then the LONG wait began. The supportband was done already at 20.30, and Lordi didn’t begin until 22.15 so… Long wait for sure!

And they were even further late. BUT, at 22.20 “God of Thunder” finally started rolling.

Lordi

Mana and Hella entered the stage, followed by Skeletor who pretty much declared war on He-Man, and the rest of the band followed as they started off with “Let’s Go Slaughter He-Man”. It was so good to see them again, and I must admit it felt really good personally to have Mr L wave to you from stage. I was a bit concerned at first, but all of it disappeared.

They followed up quickly with “Babez for Breakfast” and I had seriously forgotten what a riot of a live song this actually is – I hope they keep it for some time. “The Riff” was the next song on the list, followed by “Hellbender Turbulence”. And you know… Galway was one thing. Being this close to the stage, and the band, left us being able to even smell the band on stage. Imagine that, huh.

mrl

OX’s bassolo came up next – and just as in London I was the one singled out in the crowd again. Really funny though, because I do LOVE his current bassolo. It’s like being at the club. I wish more people would join me dancing.

The solo emerged into “Bite it Like a Bulldog” which is also one hell of a live song. I can’t even begin. Next song on the list is a song, that I mentioned during the European Monstour, being one of my absolute favorites. When Mr Lordi talks about the die-hard fans that wished for this song, he pretty much talks about me. I’m one out of many who consistently would ask for this song over and over again. And finally you know.. And I feel so blessed I’ve gotten to see it live so many times now. I love this song so much. Oh, it’s “Icon of Dominance” by the way.

oxyboy

Afterwards came Mana’s drumsolo, minus the dancing skeletons, and it emerged into “Hug You Hardcore” that is growing on me, soon becoming probably one of my favorite live songs of them. And then… of course.

“It Snows In Hell”. For this time, I had to get down on my knees on the floor and put my head on the stage, next to the monitor in order to do it – because I’ll promise you this – I will ALWAYS find a way to do it. Of course I got my fair treatment – a little bit of water, and a lot of fingering in the face from him. And the whole first part of the verse with him looking dead straight into my eyes. The song emerged into “The Children of The Night” which is also a song I have wanted for so long – this tour has really become THE TOUR.

After “Children of the Night” Hella had her little solo moment that emerged into “Down with the Devil”… This song you know. It’s good already on the album, but again – live song, live song, live song! “Blood Red Sandman” was next on the list, followed by “Hard Rock Hallelujah” before sort of wrapping the set up with “Devil is a Loser”.

mrlandpriest

Because they were running short, they had crossed “Who’s Your Daddy?” off the list and they went directly to “Would You Love a Monsterman?” before thanking for the night and going off the stage.

After this, we hung around a bit before Mark collected us all for the meet&greet, and we all got into this line where we basically lined up to have a picture taken and then get a signed poster at the merchandise.

Nathan and I decided to take the picture together to speed up time, and as we walked up Mr Lordi instantly started speaking Swedish to me, rambling about most things he could, and Amen started rambling too. It’s good to see them, right? Haha. The phone didn’t cooperate with Mark really, and of course Mr Lordis response to that was “ITS A SWEDISH PHONE THATS WHY”, and as I went to take out the phone out of it’s case, the sexual jokes emerged. Seriously. SERIOUSLY.

monsters

When we were about to leave Amen stopped us for a moment to ask us what other shows we were going to. I sort of… It got to me a bit that he asked “What other shows” we were going to, not “Are you going to more shows”. He just assumed, or well, knew, that we would be going to more shows. I just love that. We said good bye to the band and then we went up to get our posters, chatted a bit with Jessica before exiting the venue and talked a bit with our friends that we had made.

Seriously, this was such a great night. Thank you to each and everyone of you involved in this night, I love you all.

// Sara

 

1 Comment »

Epica @ Shepard’s Bush Empire, London, United Kingdom 3/2 – 17

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , , on February 3, 2017 by Sara Hammerzmith

So, finally finally, finally. The first concert of the year, and not to mention, the first concert in quite some time for me personally. Going without a show all of December and January has somewhat killed the spirit, but hey, that is what happens!

So, first we did in the morning really was to pack and prepare for our outbound journey come tomorrow, but once all was said and done we got on the train and headed off to London. First, we stopped by Kryolan’s bagsale to see if it was any interesting, and later on we met up with Robert and Madeline to have a nice pizza dinner.

After that, we did some halfhearted attempts to get to the venue, and later, gladly, we DID find it. And we made it just in time for Beyond The Black!

Beyond The Black

I had never heard Beyond the Black prior to the show, but I was really impressed! They delivered a good set, and I was happy to see how well the crowd was responding!

170203beyondtheblack02london

And next; Powerwolf

Powerwolf

So, one by one they came on stage to the tunes of “Lupus Daemonis” and later started off with “Blessed and Possessed”, quickly followed by “Army of the Night”. The band was really on fire, and so was the crowd. It was so good to see how many Powerwolf fans there actually was, considering that it was Epica’s gig, if you know what I mean?

“Amen and Attack” was next on the list, followed by “Coleus Sanctus” and “In The Name of God (Deus Vult)”. They had a new set design since last I saw them – rather than the church setting, it was a abandoned cemetary, to put it simply. Something similar to the cover of the tour edition of “Blessed and Possessed”. I loved it – gave it more of a crusade feeling, preaching the heavy metal mass and so on, you know?

170203powerwolf102london

“Sacred and Wild” followed by, and you could tell there was a lot of Powerwolf fans in the audience tonight, because as Attila was about to the do the little speech and moment for “Armata Strigoi”, the audience kept singing the entire thing already from the start. I love when you see bands get this kind of response.

“Dead Boys Don’t Cry” was next on the list before it was time for what is for me, the highlight of a Powerwolf show – “Let There Be Night”. Seriously, this song is pretty much pure perfection. The arrangements, the melodies, and not to mention – the dominating organ parts. That melodyline is to die for, and this song live is just another perfect setting. God.

170203powerwolf302london

“Resurrection by Erection” was next on the list, followed by “Werewolves of Armenia”. The crowd was really into it, and it made me so fucking happy to see. I wasn’t sure what the audience would be like, but this was perfect.

“Sanctified with Dynamite” was next before they wrapped the set up with “We Drink Your Blood”. While the set felt, in my opinion too short, it was though an amazing set. For every time I see this band, I fall more and more in love with them. Some bands simply have that effect on you, you know?

170203powerwolf202london

After the show, we went up to look at the merch, and relocated to the other side of the stage for some reason – probably space reasons, which turned out to be… both a good and a bad deal. Good deal because we had a lot better sight than previously, and the bad sides I’ll get to in a minute.

The holographic projectors were brought out, and “Eidola” started echoing in the room.

Epica

 

The kicked off the set with “Edge of the Blade” which serves quite a bit as a punch in the face, although I must admit I prefer “The Second Stone” as an opener, it was a good shot – and I loved the holographic projectors! They followed it up with “A Phantasmic Parade”, just as they have done on previous tour – following up with the second song of the album.

The audience… It was good. Like, at least toward the front. There were some moshing, and they were receiving them good, but not nearly as good as they had for Powerwolf. “Sensorium” was the next song, followed by the single “Universal Death Squad”, and then “Storm the Sorrow”. Much to my joy, “The Essence of Silence” was actually kept in the setlist, made me very very happy.

170203epica202london

“The Obsessive Devotion” followed up and the moshpit essentially exploded. It was good to see – last time I saw Epica on their own shows were in New Zealand and Australia, and I can’t really say there was a lot of moshing there. “Ascension” followed, which made me really happy actually – it’s nice to see the musicians “behind” Simone to claim the spotlight a bit.

“Dancing in a Hurricane” was next, and now I’m going to speak up about the bad sides. Because, we had a group of fans next to us who were die hard Powerwolf fans, that THROUGHOUT ALL OF FUCKING EPICA kept talking and talking and talking, and you’d think that in a concert venue, you wouldn’t be able to hear it so well, but they talked loudly to each other – throughout the show – leaving us not hearing what the people on stage had to say and sometimes, in slower songs, we couldn’t even hear them sing without having the annoying chippering in the background. And I guess we all kind of lost it when they started screaming for Powerwolf in between some song, not when Mark mentioned them, just randomly. It’s just so disgustingly disrespectful. I was so close to punch these people, but instead, I smacked them pretty hard with my hair. They did move, eventually.

My personal favorite, “Unchain Utopia” was next on the list before they wrapped it up with “Once upon a Nightmare” before they gave us their encores in the shape of “Sancta Terra”, my personal favorite off “The Holographic Principle” – “Beyond the Matrix” that were a real good crowdkiller. And seriously, this song. I loved it so much already on the album, but it’s ten times better live.

170203epica102london

They wrapped up the set with a proper wall of death and nice mosh and circle pits with “Consign to Oblivion” before they left the stage. It was a well good show, that is for sure! Although, the only minus is that Simone seemed to be a bit out of shape voice-vice, but she picked it up as the show went by which was good!

Thank you, to all three bands for making such a good night! Seriously, this was epic!

After the show, we headed straight out, meeting up with my dear Niki before hurrying home to get some rest before the big day tomorrow…

// Sara

1 Comment »

Lordi @ o2 Academy Islington, London, United Kingdom 20/11 – 16

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , , , , on November 20, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

— WARNING. I sadly do not have many pictures at all from this show! Sorry about that! —

SO THE BIG FUCKING DAY WAS HERE. Getting to bed waaay too late of course, because of some CERTAIN people sending me pics all night. At about 6 or 7 in the morning Nathan gave me a call and made it to the hotelroom. Just as about as tired as me, he crashed in bed and we went back to sleep for a couple of hours until it was time to get up and start getting somewhat ready for Paula’s arrival.

As per usual, I had a hard time deciding what to actually wear, so of course, even after Paula’s arrival, we still wound up a bit late. Or well, late for my own personal taste. We headed off to McDonalds for some quick lunch/dinner whatever it actually is on days like these, before heading home, collecting the necessities and then headed off to the venue.

As we forgot to actually check the tube at home, it was a bit of a questionmark once down under, but gladly, Nathan, who’s been at the venue before lead us there with GRACE. And once there, yes, much to our dismay we discovered some people were already waiting, but what can you do?

The first people we run into though is Michelle and Alice. I haven’t seen Michelle since Powerwolf, and this was also my first time seeing Alice, and we started hanging out a bit, when the wonder of all women was coming around the corner. And I can honestly say, I don’t often run up to people and attack them with hugs, but when I do – it’s when I see Niki. Jesus! This is one of the girls I met at Extralordinary earlier this year, so I’ve been looking forward to see her again, and spend some proper time with her.

The line got divided in two – the people who have 02 and the people who don’t. Gladly, as an 02 holder, you could bring a couple of people with you, so all of us moved to the other line. We had a lot of fun in the line – catching up, running around for coffee, being on a look out, planning and joking around with a lot of things. I’m fairly certain Nathan might be scarred for life because of this queueing.

Sadly, some unfortunate things also happen – all of a sudden, the two people infront of us in the line became 12, and despite trying to question this, they kept on fighting. Like… When the guard asked “who has 02?” only two of them raised their hands, and all of a sudden, well they became six times as many. But they stood their ground, apparently. Good thing Karma is a thing, right? I’ll get back to this one later.

Anyway, time passed on, and as darkness came, the temperature dropped DRASTICALLY. I said that after a while like, “Now it can’t be just me” and everyone agreed. Thankfully, the guard eventually let us in, and for the unusual sake, we wound up on OX’s side. I haven’t been on his side for I don’t know how long, so, well, I guess change is good right?

And with that, it was time for the first band of the night: Silver Dust

Silver Dust

As per usual, the band delivered a GREAT set – however, a very short one. I was surprised to see exactly how short it was, a lot of the songs you’d be used to hearing – not to mention “My Heart Is My Savior” was cut out of the set.  But I guess what made up for it was that it got to be a proper show – including the mirror as well as actors. Very pleasant to see!

161120silverdusto2academylondon

They left the stage, and soon thereafter, it was time for Shiraz Lane.

Shiraz Lane

Shiraz Lane delivered a good and energetic set – even though, just as Silver Dust, they had to cut their set very short – but still enjoyable. Thank you for this last night!

161120shirazlaneo2academylondon

And then the wait for Lordi began. Oh by the way – remember how I spoke about karma? Well, one of the loudest and most bitchy out of the group got so sick from all her drinking she had to be evicted. Karma, bitches, karma. Anyway.

And you know – there’s something very special about when the light goes out and “God of Thunder” starts. At first you’re surprised, and then you feel the warmth on the inside spreading in your body and the heart starts racing and the excitment begins as the smile spreads across your face because now you know it’s about five minutes ’til stage time. And then – Opening Scene and Greyskull gets on stage.

Lordi

This is the third time I’m seeing Lordi this tour, and yet it feels like I’m witnessing a different show – this time, Greyskull actually brought us He-Mans head and put it on a pole. They continued on with “Babez for Breakfast” and seriously – and it’s time now for some serious music talk here – ever since Lordi got themselves a better skilled drummer, “Babez For Breakfast” has just elevated so much. I enjoy the live version of this song way more than the studio version.

The followed up with “The Riff” and “Hellbender Turbulence” before it was time for OX’s little bassolo. I have actually come to grow very fond of it – it’s just right down my alley with the funky and dubstep rhythms. And when OX singled me out in the audience to “Shake my ass” it felt even more like, yes, okay, here we go! Sadly metalnun comes and interrupts it, and the band continues on into “Bite it Like a Bulldog”.

Next on the list is one of the songs that I have personally been begging for for years to be played. Honestly, you guys have no idea how guilty as charged I feel whenever Mr Lordi imitates the begging fans for this song, because I sure as hell am one of them. You know it – “Icon of Dominance”. Seriously – I can honestly admit that I never thought I’d ever get to hear this song live, and having heard it live for the second time, it’s just… I cannot express enough gratitude to the band, nor can I ever be more satisfied.

Mana’s drumsolo was up next, and speaking about feeling like you see a completely new show – we got the dancing skeletons! Basically, three skeletons come on stage and they dances rhythmically to “The Unholy Gathering” as Mana plays it. The drumsolo levitates into “Hug You Hardcore” and you know, I might have had my ups and downs with this song, but this song live is just beyond amazing.

“It Snows in Hell” is next on the list, with “Children of the Night” parts of it. Mr Lordi coming over tilting his head and OX aiming pics at my cleavage always make it a bit more worth it, but at this time, I want to give a big hand and kudos to the security guard. We had talked to him beforehand about our little trick, and he said we could do it if he thought it was safe enough. So what happened is that he actually walked over to us when it started and became our personal security guard for the entire song, and then gave us all high fives for the show. That made me unbelievable happy.

Hella’s solo coming up next with the little baby, followed by “Down with the Devil”. This is also one of those songs who are just incredibly amazing live. Much better than on the album, I’ve found myself after Dublin and Galway to listen to it, and it doesn’t quite measure up to the live version. This, my friends, is a good thing.

161120lordi02academylondon

The crewmember comes back on stage, OX beating her down and we all know what it is time for – “Blood Red Sandman”. And after this, Amen guitarsolo. He’s had a pretty good one this time around – first starting off with some known riffs, and then going to a smooth, sultry, sexy kind of romantic atmospheric kind of playing with romantic lights going all about… and then… The missus comes on stage and just adds to the effect with her stripping. Absolutely perfect. Fits his character as well, don’t you think?

“Hard Rock Halleujah” is next on the list and then they wrap it all up with “Devil is a Loser” before leaving the stage. Later on, they return and wrap up the whole set with “Who’s Your Daddy?” and “Would You Love a Monsterman?” and with that, Monstour was over for this time.

It’s an empty kind of feeling that fills you up this time when “The Night the Monsters Died” comes on. I guess it’s because it’s the last gig of the tour that, no matter how much you want another show, this is it until next time.

We hang around a little for a while, head off to the merch to pick up some last stuff and say good bye to the Silver Dust guys. We head out, and walk around the block to make it to the tourbus, only to find Mr Lordi in costume! What a pleasant surprise. This meant Nathan and Niki could finally have their picture taken with him, after all this time!

nathanmrl

While waiting for the rest of the members to come out and say good bye for the tour, we met Valentina from Italy, and really just having a good time – waiting by the tourbus for the band (if they come out) is so much more than just hoping to meet the band – it’s the same as queueing, but at the end. It’s the last couple of survivors of the show, completely worn out running on pure adrenaline, but with hearts and minds full of joy, getting them drunk on life. That is the people you find outside the tourbus. The people with pure love in their hearts.

So, evening consisted of us getting a private show by Ralph Ruiz, getting a few good byes by some of the bandmates and crewmembers and awkwardly dancing and waving with “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion. We could see that someone in the bus was actually waving back to us, which is very sweet although we do not know for sure who it actually was. And then off we went in the rainy night…

rainynight

After this, we were supposed to go to a McDonalds that were “1 minute away” but ended up walking like 20 minutes until we finally found one that was still open – and we had a nice late night dinner talking about how amazing this show was and how much we all loved being there together.

We said good bye to Valentina as she was heading a different direction, and we went to the carpark to pick up Niki’s car and she drove us home to the hotel. 10 intense minutes of headbanging to Lordi songs together in the smallest roadtrip ever, but it happened, and it was amazing.

We then said a heartfelt good bye to her, went back to our hotel and packed our things before crashing in bed.

What a night. Thank you all, all of you involved in this show and in this tour – you guys are the reason I live, and I love you all so much. Til next time, people!

// Sara

Leave a comment »

Reckless Love @ Electric Ballroom, London, United Kingdom 19/11 -16

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , , , on November 19, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

Alrighty. It was quite the interesting day I guess you could say – straight out of work I went to the bus, that was of course late. And the thing is… I guess, the thing is, I had a pretty narrow flight – the flight was departing two hours after arrival with the bus, and while you know me – I don’t like waiting at airports, so technically, this is perfect for me, but on the same time, I don’t like when the bus is late. I like to have the idea that I can take my time at the airport, to check in and all that.

So, 15 minutes late the bus arrives, but it was no big deal – we made it to the airport almost on time, so kudos to the busdriver I guess! Got checked in, dropped my luggage and proceeded to my plane. I was going through a rather long day actually – due to the last minute decision and last minute bookings, I was having some rather inconvenient flightchanges – first off to Düsseldorf which is the absolute wrong way, and then back up to London.

For the first time in my life I have no experienced a very very turbulent flight. It almost felt like I was riding a roller coaster or something, which made it a wee bit difficult to sleep, which I had planned. Once arrived in Düsseldorf, I decided to get some lunch, only to realize this airport lacks any sort of selection for food. There are some very exclusive places, but barely any for a snack. So I eventually wound up on something similar to 7-Eleven and a halftasty sandwich. It’s interesting, isn’t it, how much your standards just DROP once on tour.

I headed back toward my gate, got on the plane and could FINALLY enjoy any sort of sleep on the plane. Once in London, I got on the train directly to King’s Cross and heading to the hotel and start getting ready for tonights show. I arrived around 15, and much to my dismay and panic, the doors actually opened already at 18.

So quickly getting ready, a quick change and then heading off. Camden is actually only about 5 minutes with the tube from where we lived, and if I wanted to, a 30 minute walk. But if I got myself an Oystercard you can be damn sure I’ll be using it. So, once in Camden, at first a bit disoriented, I found it.

The Electric Ballroom.

electricballroom

I’m not sure how many of you readers know, but The Electric Ballroom is somewhat of an iconic and legendary venue for the sleaze scene in Europe – anyone who’s into, certianly newer sleaze bands such as Crashdïet, Sister or conveniently – Reckless Love, know about this venue. This venue, and this area everyone has talked about. As someone who’s now having one foot in the 80’s and sleaze gutter, and one foot firmly screwed in powermetal, it was a warm coming-home kind of feeling finally getting to this venue. Sofia and I had planned going here many years ago, but because of reasons it couldn’t happen.

I arrived in the middle of the first supportband, that I sadly never caught the name of, which is a big shame as they were actually really really good. At the end of this show, I run into Renata that I haven’t seen for AGES. Oh my God! And the surprised face she gave me as she saw me there. The confusion! It was great catching up with her after all this time.

And then, it was time for The Treatment

The Treatment

So, Michelle and I have some really old inside jokes about this band from years back when they toured with Steel Panther, and it’s honestly so hard not to think about that when I watch the band. But, they delivered a very good set, and the audience seemed to love them!

Reckless Love

I went to the bathroom after the show, and sadly lost Renata and her friends, so I enjoyed the gig from the back, which can also be nice. It has been some time, or well, since maybe Sabaton Open Air, that I actually enjoyed a show from the back.

Much to my enjoyment, the boys opened the set with “Animal Attraction”. I could write about how I actually feel about that song, but that would make the blog Rated R, because it sure as hell are other things in, or on me, that gets happy whenever I hear that song. So, it’s safe to say we were off to a good start.

They followed up with “So Happy I Can Die” and then the videosingle of their most recent album – “Monster”. Seriously, I love this song, and this band so much. Can I just… take them home? “Pretty Boy Swagger” followed suit before it was time for an oldie but goodie – “Beautiful Bomb”. Bubblegum rock at it’s finest, isn’t it?

161119recklesslove1electricballroom

The band was very energetic. As I remember them. Always being happy, always giving 110% on stage. They are four happypills walking on two legs forcing you to smile, even if you so wanted to cry. This is why I love them, or well, one out of many reasons.

“Badass Baby” is next on the list, followed by “Edge of Our Dreams”… And you know. This song is pure magic. This, THIS Very song my friends – this song is magic in one song. And the live performance of the song, with the dreamy lights made this one of the biggest highlights of the entire show. I cannot express how much I love this song, or perhaps even, how much this song means to me.

“Scandinavian Girls” was next on the list – and first of all – this is my absolute favorite song off “InVaders”, and secondly… It’s something truly special and remarkable hearing a song about Scandinavian girls, specifically, when you are abroad. At the moment it made me proud of my heritage, and it just gives you that extra sense of… belonging. I always loved that this band singles out Scandinavian girls specifically in their songs (also in “Hot”), finally, you know?

“Born to Break Your Heart” was next on the list, followed by “Wild Touch”, “Rock It” and then my personal favorite off “Animal Attraction” – actually, that whole album is just one big favorite, but I have a soft spot for “On The Radio”, it’s just such a crowd friendly song – and the crowd proved it too!

161119recklesslove2electricballroomlondon

I thought the crowd generally wasn’t as active as I would have wished them to be – but I’m starting to wonder if it was a shitty crowd, or if I’ve been away from this scene too much that I don’t even remember how these crowd behaves.

They wrapped up the set with “Night on Fire” and FINALLY, the crowd, more or less, exploded. Finally! Took them long enough.

They left the stage and then returned kicking off with “We are the Weekend” and then ending the entire night with “Hot”. I just love this song. It’s the ultimate jumping and dancing song. Actually, anything Reckless Love just calls for sexual dancing all night long.

The band thanked for themselves, and I headed off to the merch – I can’t control myself clearly, but I also felt the need to really have a souvenir from this pretty amazing night. Thank you so much Reckless Love, this night was just beyond me – throwing me back so many years in my own music listening, and making me eager to get back more to the scene. Some time. You know.

After the show, I headed home pretty directly in an attempt to catch some sleep before the big day tomorrow, which Niki and Nathan ensured I would not get any sleep by texting me all evening, sending pictures from their amazing night. Fuck you guys, I love you, but fuck you.

// Sara

Leave a comment »

Delain @ The Button Factory, Dublin, Ireland 11/11 – 16

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , , , , on November 11, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

So, as I left off in the last entry, at 5am in the morning did my precious, beautiful, loved above all friends left me alone in our suite. I decided to stay, after all, seeing that Delain was playing in Dublin today, and five years ago I left London the same day Sabaton played, and since that day I decided to never again leave a country or city the same day a band played. So, around 6am I went back to bed to sleep about…. three hours. My train from Galway was leaving at 11, so it wasn’t a whole lot of sleep, but it was at least something, you know? The only downpart is that one of my bosses rang me up and woke me up an hour early, so I do not know quite honestly exactly how much time I actually slept in the end.

So, up I got, hurried to pack everything and get ready, and then set off to Dublin. It was probably the longest trainride I have ever experienced in my entire life, gladly, Niki made it a bit more bearable by talking to me on the phone. I seriously hate it when you leave your bestfriends and then you are on your own.

So, around 14 I arrived in Dublin and went off to check into my hotel. After this, I met up with a friend and we hung around a bit in Dublin, walking around the streets, eating a bit – we didn’t have a lot of time seeing I arrived so “late” and the doors for Delain opened so soon.

So, we got back to our hotels, got ready for the show and went down to the Button Factory. The good thing is that, while being a big town, Dublin is fairly small so pretty much everything is within walking distance. Just a little bit after we entered the venue, Kobra and the Lotus began.

Kobra and the Lotus

They delivered a very good set. Good, and energetic. I love Kobra as a front woman, she really knows how to get a crowd going. It was a very, very enjoyable set and I’m glad we made it in time to catch them. At first, when I listened to them, I was a bit unsure but you know – nothing beats a good liveperformance.

161111kobrathebuttonfactorydublin

Evergrey

Fairly quickly after Kobra, Evergrey began their set. Once again they delivered a very very good set, enjoyable as hell even though I must admit I’m not a big fan of them. But, good show nonetheless!

After Evergrey, I quickly went to the bathroom only to run into a friend of mine, Jay! Even though I met her both of the two days before, it was still nice to see her outside the band, running into her like this. Very nice.

161111evergreythebuttonfactorydublin

Arrived back, in good time for Delain to start.

Delain

The lights went out, “The Monarch” began and the band walked onstage and opened strongly with “Hands of Gold”. Goddamn what a rush it is to see them again. Like I’ve said before, I wasn’t very convinced with “The Human Contradiction” but “Moonbathers”, holy hell, easily one of my top albums this YEAR! They followed up with “Suckerpunch” and then one of my personal favorites on the album “Glory and the Scum”. Seriously, I just love this song so much.

The band delivered extremely well, and it was really good to see them now on their first run in Ireland. Next on the list was “Get The Devil Out of Me” before my personal favorite all time with Delain started – “Pendulum”. Seriously, I cannot tell you enough how much I love this song – and it’s everything about it – the arrangements, the lyrics, the heaviness in the music mixed with heavy lyrics, easily my favorite on this album.

“Army of Dolls” and “The Hurricane” followed, then “April Rain” before it was time for another personal favorite of mine – “Here Come The Vultures”. Seriously, this one still gets me as much today as it did last year. Absolutely love it.

“Fire with Fire” and “Danse Macabre” – another two of my big favorites off “Moonbathers”. Seriously, I cannot get over how amazing “Danse Macabre” is, especially not live. So amazing. It gives me chills. They followed it up with “Sleepwalkers Dream” and “Stay Forever”.

161111delainthebuttonfactorydublin

They then proceeded to start “The Gathering”, and seriously, I get chills everytime I hear this song. And I still regret not grabbing my company to ask them to dance with me during this song. It’s so good for that.

They wrapped up the set with “Pristine” before leaving the stage, only to return as normal and finished off the whole set with “Mother Machine”, “Don’t Let Go” and finally “We are the Others”.

Seriously, this show was so amazing. I am beyond happy that I stayed to see this show as well, it was worth every single little penny from the re-booking of the flight. Delain, everytime I see you, my love for you grows even bigger. If we are going to continue in this pace, you will soon be one of my big five bands. And it’s not a long road to walk for you. I love you.

We hung around a bit after the show to let the people leave, and then headed out for some drinks later in the night for some quality time, and then parting ways.

This was a really good day, though I must admit I really really miss my little piu piu tktktktktktk friends SO MUCH. I wish they could have been there with me.

// Sara

Leave a comment »

An Intimate Night with Lordi – A tale of Spit and Ice cubes: Part Two

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , , on November 10, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

**** Lordi @ Monroe’s, Galway, Ireland 10/11 -16 *****

So. The lights went out. And then the very very well recognized bass tunes from “God of Thunder” and we just… exploded. Most of the arena did. Execept the two people next to us, who had so ferociously fought for their spots… why? Bites me. And then… “SCG:VII” and they started off the set with “Let’s Go Slaughter He-Man (I Wanna be the Beast Man in the Masters of the Universe)”

And this was just so weird. All that was between us and Lordi, where a pair of monitors and all of our stuff. I have been to shows before where there have been no fence, but seeing LORDI like this, LORDI without a proper stage show, NOTHING was just pure weird.

They followed up with “Babez for Breakfast” before stopping. Stopping to tell us that, they have no stage show tonight becasue of the small stage. And that they do not have any setlist, so it was up to us to choose what songs we wanted to hear. This left me standing there confused, because I had no idea what songs I’d want to hear. So, essentially, let the mainstream crowd decide. And of course, the first song of choice was “Hard Rock Halleujah”. What else do you expect from a pub in a smaller Irish city? So, “Hard Rock Halleujah” was next, followed by “Bringing Back The Balls to Rock”.

161110lordimonroesgalway

Next song was one of the songs that were actually cut in Dublin – “Nailed by the Hammer of Frankenstein”. I felt a little uneasy when Mr L stood and proclaimed “WANNA HEAR A SONG ABOUT RAPING?” but you know… what can you do. It was good to hear it again though!

“Hug You Hardcore” followed and… all eyes turned to Nathan. You see, on the evening of the Presidential election, Nathan made a bet. That if Donald Trump wins, he will take off his top and swing it over his head in “Hug You Hardcore”. And seeing that Donald Trump actually won, he had to own up to it. And fair enough, in the last chorus of the song we did indeed see Nathan take his shirt off and swing it over his head. I fucking loved it.

I’m going to apologize right here – I didn’t keep proper tags on the setlist, so some of the songs can be a bit out of order. Next song on the list was “Blood Red Sandman”, and I think that somewhere along here, they also threw in “Rock the Hell Outta You” and “Bite it Like a Bulldog”. And also, somewhere along here, we had ice cubes coming our way, because apparently, one bandmember thought it was time for us to “cool down” a bit. Seriously, I love this band.

After “Blood Red Sandman”… it was time for our little moment. “It Snows in Hell”. Since there were no actual fence, what happened is that we created pillows and matresses out of our stuff, and simply laid down on it, like as on the floor. And as soon as we got ourselves comfortable, we saw a very familiar face getting very close to us, having water dripping, or more like, spilling out of his mouth all over us, drenching us worse than he has ever done before. He then proceeded to dedicate the first line to us, as per usual.

And then.. “Children of the Night”. And this people. This is where it got fucking serious alright. Lordi had no stage props. Nothing. So, I guess, Mr Lordi saw an oppurtunity and he took it. He used us in the song. He showed us off to the audience, that he hid us under the floor, because us being here made him sore, and that we still gotta be there, that we are not going anywhere…. At first I thought he was just singing the first line to us as usual, but soon enough I noticed he was actually fucking USING US AS PROPS. What a rush! What an absolute rush, to be used as props, completely unexpectedly. I loved this song so much already from the start, but now the song is just closer to heart than it ever was before.

“Who’s Your Daddy?” followed, “The Riff” next before they did “Down with the Devil”. We tried out our new little trick for “Down with the Devil”, which will probably only work for this show because of the flightcase, it was funny.

161110lordimonroesgalway2

As we notice the band getting ready to wrap up their set, we start chanting “HELLA! HELLA! HELLA!” Because yes. They didn’t have any stage show. But they had one thing they could do. Or she could do. And after we chanted a bit, she indeed started stripping for us.

And I guess this is what made this show so special. Sure, it was a very special, weird and odd show to start with, but what made it even more special for us, is the fact that it felt like we were the only fans that existed for the band. So much interactions, so many “inside jokes” with the band, out of nowhere, so many things they wound up doing for, and to us. I can’t really get over this.

They wrapped the whole set up with “Devil is a Loser” and “Would you Love a Monsterman?” before they left the stage and we just stood there in awe. What an amazing show. What a fucking show. It was so good, and weird to see them like this. The only fucking minus though, is all those people who created fake mosh pits. You know, those people who think that just because they are at a metal show they can behave any way they want. It hurt us a couple of times, especially those times we almost knocked over Lordi’s monitors. Nice, huh?

After the show, we hung around a bit trying to comprehend it all, before making our way down to the merch. Myself, I picked up on the “Hug Me Hardcore” shirt, and Paula on some other things. I think Sophie also got some stuff. We had met up with a Polish guy, Kacper, before the show, so together with him, and with Mike of course (the angel brought us water bottles!!) made our way back to Lordis stage to take one last picture together, to treasure this moment forever.

allofus

We said a last good bye to everyone in the venue, Kacper leaving early before me, Soph, Paula, Nate, Mike and Gavin made our way outside the tourbus for some more hanging out and catching up. After Mike had went to bed (hehe) we went over to Lordi’s tourbus to say good bye to everyone… but only to regret it. A stupid group of drunk people had made their way there, knocking on the tourbus, even trying to BREAK INTO the tour bus a couple of times, making us very very embarrassed to be there. Gladly, they weren’t with us.

After some time, we said good bye to Gavin and went back home to our hotel – but at this time, it was already 4 in the morning, and having a train leaving at 5 we saw no point in trying to go to bed, so we spent one last hour together, on the floor in one of the bedrooms talking about how much we love this silly little band from Finland, and how amazing this trip had been.

hangingoutaftershow

paulis

Thank you guys. So fucking much. This trip was beyond amazing.

// Sara

Leave a comment »

Lordi @ The Button Factory, Dublin, Ireland 9/11 2016

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , , , on November 9, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

Finally, FINALLY the purpose of our trip – Lordi. I do have to briefly talk about something else though very quickly. As you guys know, the American election was going on as we were going to bed, and at first we did follow the voting, but then went to bed. We hoped we’d wake up next morning to see Hillary Clinton win, but as you guys probably know, she did not. It was a very very uneasy feeling waking up and reading that Donald Trump had indeed won the election, so I can’t exactly say we had the best of moods to start off this day.

We started off by having breakfast before Nathan headed back home to shower (he takes forever to shower) and the rest of us did some quick shopping before getting back and getting ready for the show. Obviously, or, as usual when it comes to Lordi, we always want and try to be first in line, so around 14-15 we headed down to the venue, and of course, there was no one there. A little while later, Gavin, a guy I met through Lordi Army facebook page joined us, and it all turned into a cozy little party. We played some cardgames, talked, danced around, jumped around, listened to music – you know, ordinary queueing stuff.

As it got closer to opening time, finally other people arrived, and as soon as the doors opened we claimed our spots in the frontrow and started to await the first supportband of the night, Silver Dust.

Silver Dust

First band of the night was the Swiss theatrical metallers Silver Dust. I wasn’t sure at all what to expect from the show, even though I was looking forward to the show after hearing their album. And boy, what a show! I was blown away! It may sound harsh, but seriously, this was soooo good. A combination of charismatic bandmembers, thematic music and an amazing stage show left us all blown away. Thank you, Silver Dust!

161109silverdustthebuttonfactorydublin

After they left the stage, the wait for Shiraz Lane began, which wasn’t too long.

Shiraz Lane

Shiraz Lane is an 80’s hairmetal band from Finland, fittingly enough, and it’s pretty good band if you ask me. They delivered a very enjoyable and energetic set, which really got us in the mood for Lordi.

161109shirazlanethebuttonfactorydublin

And then… the eager wait. Wait for what we actually came there for. Lordi. And right when we thought we’d wait longer than needed, the lights went out and “God of Thunder” started.

And you know… When “God of Thunder” starts, that is the exact moment when all the built up excitment in you starts boiling, not bursting, but boiling, and you feel the adrenaline pump in your vein. Whether you are a KISS fan or not, you will absolutely love it.

Lordi

Then, “SCG:VIII: Opening Scene” started, Greyskull came on stage and the band started off with “Let’s Go Slaughter He-Man (I wanna be the Beast man in the Masters of the Universe)” and you know, THIS, THIS is when you absolutely BURST. You feel your soul blow up to a big balloon and as you hear the keys of Hella starting it shatters, shatters into a lot of pieces of glitter all over the place.

They followed it up with “Babez For Breakfast” and I can honestly say I’ve really missed this song in the set – especially since it got a lot heavier with a new drummer putting their stamp on it. Ultimate headbang song. “The Riff” followed, next “Hellbender Turbulence” which, you know, it was a great surprise for us to see it back.

Next up, was OX’s bassolo, and it’s like nothing we’ve ever seen before. So basically, he’s going through all kinds of bassoriented genre’s, spiced with a “SHAKE THAT ASS!!!” “ASS!!!” which left us all laughing. A nun came on stage trying to stop him from playing this ungodly music, but naturally, he slayed her. The bassolo soon emerged into “Bite it Like a Bulldog”, and oy vey am I glad to see some Deadache songs back on the list! Ultimate!

And next.. And this my friends. I’m going to just… “Icon of Dominance” was the next song on the list, and this is, as you may not know, one of my absolute favorite songs Lordi ever made. And I never in my life thought I’d get to hear this song live, ever. And seeing it on the list, and then hearing it live, I can’t… I can’t even… put words into it. This moment. This one moment.

161109lordithebuttonfactorydublin2

Next up was Mana’s little moment with the drumsolo, merging into “Hug You Hardcore”. Seriously, this song is such a song to just go crazy to. I love it, and next, our little moment. “It Snows in Hell”. Down we go, and so does Mr Lordi. It’s always so cute when he tilts his head over to mimick us. But then… what came next…

“Children of the Night”.

At this point, I’m at loss for words. This song. You know, “It Snows in Hell” is far away from being a favorite song with Lordi, far far, and I always complained about them playing this one particular song, and always said “Can’t they just do Children of the Night or something”. And now. Finally. At last. They do this. This is also one of those songs I never ever thought I’d ever hear live, and it was such an unreal moment

This was followed with a keyboard solo, with a gigantic baby coming out on stage together with it’s mother. Hella’s baby, you know. It was a nice little moment, followed up with “Down with the Devil”, which is also one of those, just, nice fucking songs. I don’t even know how to put it properly.

“Blood Red Sandman” was next, followed by a very interesting guitar solo. So, Amen goes about, playing his guitar doing his thing… when Hella comes up. Walking foxy toward the center of the stage, she starts a strip tease. Swinging her vest around. That… was sexy. Sexy as fuck.

161109lordithebuttonfactoydublin

“Hard Rock Hallelujah” was next, followed by “Sincerely With Love” before they wrapped it up with “Devil is a Loser”. They walked off stage, came back and wrapped it all up with “Who’s Your Daddy?” and “Would you Love a Monsterman?”

After this, the band thanked for themselves and walked off stage, to the tunes of “The Night the Monsters Died”, ironically. Damn. This show was just sooooo good. Like, beyond good. After the show, we headed for the merchandise to pick up some goodies, like Silver Dust’s album and a backpatch, after ALL THESE YEARS. We hit it off pretty well with those guys, and moved on to a pub all together to spend some good quality time together before getting back to our hotel and sleep for like, three hours.

partytime partytime2 purchases

Drumstick is from Mr Killjoy, the unknown album is from a local band.

This day was soooo good, from start to finish. I can’t even explain how amazing this day was. Thank you everyone!

// Sara

Leave a comment »

Delain @ Elyseé Montmarte, Paris, France 4/11 – 16

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , on November 4, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

So! It was time. With a lot of delays, I didn’t find myself at the venue until a little after doors opened, which I felt a little bad about to be honest, as Laura and Florian had set up for someone to watch my spot, but, what can you do?

When I got to the venue, or well, you know, it was across the street from my hotel, the line went on pretty fast, and right as I got in, Kobra and the Lotus started.

Kobra & the Lotus

I saw Kobra earlier this year, but with Kamelot, and I adored her already when I saw her, so getting to see her with her own band was something I really looked forward to. And wow! What a show! The energy! It was a very short set, but it was very very good. Enjoyed it SOO much. I’m falling for this band.

161104kobraatlelyseemontmarteparis

After a very, VERY short wait, Evergrey started.

Evergrey

Gothenburg based band Evergrey stood for the next show of the evening, and they delivered a really good set! I enjoyed it from start to finish, well, except the stop in the middle when the firealarm went off, and we had to be waiting for a while. But aside that, good, good show!

161104evergreyelyseemontmarteparis

At this point, or during the fire alarm thing, I had managed to make my to the front to Laura, and thanks to this amazing girl who let me in front of her, seriously, thank you sooo much! And shortly thereafter, Delain started. I love the fact that they simply start as soon as it’s all done instead of having the diva minutes.

Delain

The intro, “The Monarch” started and to the rhythm of the drummer they sent up the backdrop, the rest of the band joined and they kicked off with “Hands of Gold”. The response from the audience was amazing, and they followed up quickly with “Suckerpunch” before they continued on with one of my personal favorites – “Glory and the Scum”. Seriously, I just love this song so much.

“Get the Devil Out of Me” was next on the list, followed by “Pendulum”, and you know. This is my song you know. Heavy fucking headbang friendly song, also one of my favorites off “Moonbathers”. I feel like I might repeat this very sentence a lot during the night, we’ll see. The band was on fire! “Army of Dolls” were next, followed by the very, very beautiful “The Hurricane” which is you know. This song… I can’t really begin to talk about how much I love this song, how much I relate to it, and it was extremely special to watch Charlotte perform this song, to watch her put all of her emotion into it… Simply beautiful.

This was followed by “April Rain” before the band left the stage for a short moment, turning all the lights red and my personal favorite off “The Human Contradiction” – “Here Come The Vultures” started. Oh my god, I do not have enough words for how much I love this song.

161104delainelyseemontmarteparis

This song, was followed by another song I love – “Fire with Fire”. It’s like they managed to pick out exactly my favorites to play for the night. “The Gathering” from “Lucidity”, which celebrates ten years since the release this year, was next and holy hell! The audience! What a response! And what a rush the song was.

They wrapped the set up with “Pristine” before they left the stage, only to return and started off the encores with “Mother Machine”, followed by “Don’t let Go” and finally, “We are the Others”. The band thanked for the night and left the stage.

Seriously, this show was soo good. This band is one of those bands who are really interactive with the crowd, and just radiates that energy and translate it onto the crowd. It was an amazing show, and also, I’m in love with Charlotte’s dress. I could barely take my eyes off it! So beautiful.

After the show, we had a quick gathering and then I went off to the merch to pick up on Kobra’s album and take the moment to thank Kobra for the show, and also for her amazing performance with Kamelot at Skogsröjet earlier this year.

lotuses

After that, I mostly sat around on a couch until a girl sat down next to me, and I started talking to her… only to realize she’s Swedish! HOW BIG ARE THE ODDS? Apparently big enough! So we sat around and chatted until we got evicted from the venue, and the party moved outside.

I met up again with Laura, Cyril and the others, and we hung around talking for a long while, before it was time to say good night and walk our separate ways.

This has been an AWESOME night, it was soooo good to see Delain again, and mostly, to meet all my wonderful friends again. I love you all!

// Sara

 

Leave a comment »

Amaranthe @ Petit Bain, Paris, France 3/11 – 16

Posted in Concerts, Music, Uncategorized with tags , , , on November 3, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

So. The clock had started to run a little bit for me, so it was a very very stressed Sara that was running around in the hotelroom trying to pull everything together (going to prepare it sooo much better for Delain tomorrow, although it’s unnecessary) and then heading off to the venue. As I’m sitting on the metro trying to organize and sort through my stuff, I notice my entire little finger is covered in blood. At first I get startled, because, sure, I know I have sensitive skin and that it breaks easily, especially when cold, but this was just too much blood. Managed to figure out I probably got a papercut from the ticket. So I guess we can all agree that I’d bleed for Amaranthe, huh?

fuckingpapercut

This is what it looks like when cleaned. Damn.

Anyway, because I forgot to charge my phone, I had decided to keep it turned off as much as possible, and written down what metro stations to take and go to, and while being on the last one I kept my eyes open for boats, and I feel so proud of myself for managing to find the venue / boat without using google maps. Sure, it wasn’t a far distance or anything, but I’m still feeling so proud of it.

So, Petit Bain is sure as hell petite. Very, very small, but also very very cozy. I came in right as Smash Into Pieces started playing

Smash Into Pieces

I had listened a little bit to them before the gig, well, as preparations for the gig, so I honestly didn’t know a whole lot of the band, but I enjoyed the show so much. They are very good and entertaining on stage, and I really liked the music once I got to hear it better than me running around at work. Good job guys!

1601103smashparis1

Once they were done, I managed to locate my dear friend Laura, classicly by seeing her Pikachu bag, or, Metal Pika as he’s more known as. And seriously… I haven’t seen this girl in over a year! Last time I saw her was at Delain in Belgium in October last year, how long! How is it possible! It was soooo good to reunite with her again and catch up a little little bit, before it was time for Sonic Syndicate to go on.

Sonic Syndicate

So, this band is also a band that was a bit unknown for me – well, musically. That’s the thing – I’m well aware of both bands since before, but never really bothered to look into them too much. Syndicate, however, I remember that their newest album “Confession” stuck with me when I was doing my prelistening, so I was very excited to see them.

And what a set they delievered! Shit, it was just that good! I enjoyed it from start to finish, and I’ll really try to see them again some time. This was soo good.

161103syndicateparis1

After Sonic Syndicate, the eager wait for Amaranthe began… And.. already at this point they start some sort of intro which consisted of snippest of their old songs, as if someone was changing stations on a radio or so.

Amaranthe

But, at half past 21, the actual intro for the show started, the band got on stage and they hit the show off with “Maximize”. And holy hell! I mean, the crowd had already showed that they got some in them in Sonic Syndicate, but it simply exploded, and then I mean in a pit. People were pushed side to side, but damn I loved it. Finally back at a show with decent people in the crowd – Seriously, I’ve always preferred southern shows (seen from Sweden) because people are so chill.

They followed up directly with “Boomerang”, which isn’t a personal favorite, but they did it so well. Elize was on basic fire. “Hunger” was the third song, and if you thought people exploded in “Maximize”, then… ough. Holy shit! And how warm was it not in here?

“Invincible” was next on the list, followed by “1.000.000 Lightyears” and the band was just on fire. I don’t know how many of you know this – but for this tour Jake E was being replaced by Adam from Smash Into Pieces, and damn. He fits soooo good in. I’m in absolute love with his voice, and it just became so perfect together with Elize and Henrik. And his stagepersona! The way he interact with the crowd! I love him.

161103amarantheparis1

“Trinity” and “True” was next on the setlist before it was time for my personal favorite off “Maximalism” – “Fury”. My adrenaline started pumping so hard as soon as I heard the intro, because you know, this oughta be good. And it was, oh my god. This whole performance with the red lights going all over the venue and Henrik just absolutely slaying it on stage… Damn. Easily the best moment on the whole show.

The song was followed up by the Elize’s ballad “Endlessly”, and I love this song so much. It’s so… epic. Powerfull. BIG. But, one critique. I think Elize needs to back away a little bit from the microphone when doing the louder and higher tones, because it was very unpleasant for the ear as it all just became noise. But aside that, it was a magical moment.

Morten showed off some of his skills before it was time for “On The Rocks”, which is one of my favorites off the new album, and it was soooo good live. Like beyond. I love it even more now. “Automatic” was next on the list before they played my personal favorite, and also the song I discovered Amaranthe with, “The Nexus”. Seriously, this is one of my favorite moments during an Amaranthe show.

It was followed by “Amaranthine”, and just hearing the entire crowd.. I mean, it feels magical for me, how mustn’t it feel for the band? Damn. It’s amazing. They closed up the set with “Call Out My Name”, and seriously…The crowd was WILD.  And it was hot! Like BEYOND! Sure, it gets warm and hot at shows, but I was drowning myself from my own sweat, do you get how hot it actually was?

They left the stage, and soon Johan returned to do some of his… stand up? I don’t really know what it’s supposed to be, but he came back, talked a bit and soon enough the whole band came and they kicked off with “Digital World”. This song is also one of my favorites live, simply because of the “Start a Revolution now!” breakdown. Seriously. As you may have noticed, my personal favorites are the songs that are very very headbang friendly. That’s my kind of live shows. “That Song” followed, and then “Dynamite” before they wrapped up the whole set with “Drop Dead Cynical”. “Endlessly” played in the background as they left the stage, it was beautiful.

This show was sooo good. I can’t get over this band, I simply can’t!

Right after the show I headed to the bar to get some water, because that was necessary. Rejoined with my friends, also said hello to Cyril that I ran into before Laura and I headed off to the merch where we spent a bit of time with the supportbands (both from Sweden, giving us a lot to talk about) and I picked up on Sonic Syndicates new album and Smash Into Piece’s “The Apocalypse DJ”. It was a very pleasant night, and I also went over to say hello to Maffe and catch up a bit with him before we were forced to leave the venue.

merchsipss

Once outside we kept hanging around and after a while Elize came out and said hi to us… And this is something I have to write about because it kind of hit me. When saying hello to everyone she looked at me and says “I have met you before have I not?” and I answered her in Swedish, that yes, in Belgium last year, and she hugged me and said “YES! You are the Swedish one, I knew it was something with you!” and this hits me a bit, because I have only met her once before, well, at least where I talked to her, and I don’t see Amaranthe very often, and we don’t have any tricks like on Lordi shows, which makes it… weird for me that she remembers me. It’s… wow. That’s all I can say.

We hung around a bit, newfound friend Florian got to sing with Elize (might post you a video later!) and just hanging out with new found friends was just amazing. Emilie and I shared a taxi home, and now I’m here in the hotelroom just thinking about what an amazing day this have been, and what a blessed life I’m living.

Tomorrow it’s time for Delain and some more touristing. On it again!

// Sara

Leave a comment »

The Monsterican Dream

Posted in Christmas Metal Meeting 2011, Concerts, Finland, Italy 2013, Music, Paris 2010, Thiz Izz Djermani, Travels, Uncategorized with tags , , on September 19, 2016 by Sara Hammerzmith

On this day, September 19th ten years ago, 2006, I witnessed my very very first Lordi show. It was in Gothenburg, the arena was Lisebergshallen and my company was Lina, who actually to this date was also my very very first “internetfriend” ever, a girl I had met through Wig Wam the year prior.

We were at the venue early. Like, ten in the morning or something like that. I can’t even remember properly. And it was a show worth waiting for. Seeing my heroes for the very first time live (and also a mysteriously military clad band singing about going through the gates of hell on their way to heaven…) was beyond words to describe. This was the The Arockalypse tour, so unlike the more recent tours it was a big show – a lot of theatrics, pyrotechnics and a massive show. The setlist was perfect, the night was perfect, and it got even better by the facts that I’d managed to score backstagepasses for me and my friends.

Meeting Lordi for the first time wasn’t exactly the easiest thing for a shy little person like me, and Kita had to convince me to come forward to even dare to walk up to them. I owe him for that.

lordimemories1

But that was ten years ago. And this is what this marks. Ten years of monsterloving. It’s been ten years as a Lordifan, and I honestly thought this day would never come. That I’d lose interest in them one day, but no. My love for this band grows bigger and bigger for every day. It hasn’t been easy, there’s been times where it’s hard to defend the band, but that is the point. You stand with the band through thick and thin, and never give up on them. And I have never.

Thanks to Lordi, I have met some of my absolute best friends.It goes all the way back to the groupconversations and family constellations and weddings we used to make in 2006 – Where I married Ghostrider, also known as Sergio, and he’s still one of my best friends today. I remember Lozzy16, Lauren, was the “chapel master” and Monster-girl, Suncica, KittyCat, Anna and Pride_of_Finland, Ville was our best men / bridesmaids. FallenOne, William was my father who walked to the alter, and BeautyOfTheBeast, whose name fails me, was the priest. This was all of course happening on MSN, but still.

Fast forward a few years to Kita’s departure where we met Thomas – in the midst of planning a new monster and the “penis monster” came to be, and I became “B. A. Nana” because of all the bananas I used to give to the funny people. And of course, how can we forget that one night – Me – Ida, Martine (GoodToBeBadGirl) Thomas (Thomas), Martin (martinmaniac), King, Jonathan (Monsta), Michal (NightmareWingsHell) and Jordan (Mooneyman) had a basic riot in the Misc babbling section that ended with “King, you just said you wanted to have some gaysex with me and Martin“. Most iconic line from that times of riots.

But it doesn’t end there. We have PoliceLineDoNotCross who was always a pleasent person to have to deal with, AmericanMonsterMan (I’m sorry if I misspell your usernames people!) miss_brutality, Sooooophie, Maddy, CB Studios, Miss-Elodia – I specifically remember when she randomly joined in me and Martine throwing fake Lordi lyrics in the Misc babbling, MarkusHasADeadache, Stude, Nillan, Kitawa, Judge-death, Erina, I could go on forever with this list! It’s a whole load of amazing people that you’ve met on this one little forum called Monsterboard. And we all united there for one reason: The love for Lordi.

Thanks to Lordi, I’ve been able to see a big part of Europe I probably never would have seen, and I’d want to say the world because really, we did wind up seeing Epica in Australia and New Zealand, but it was because of Lordi we even went there to begin with.

It hasn’t always been easy. On the contrary, it’s been a rollercoaster and different occasions. It’s been everything:

My first trip to Finland was because of them, which included Pippi Långstrump and Moomin madness – and a hairbrush that broke.

lordimemories6

It has been shouting “Mr Porn” out towards the streets through a window in Paris, where we had a large get-together of Monsterboard people (Soooophie, FairyOfDarkness, Isa, Angel_Of_Death, LIVINGDEADDOLLIE, mummy-, Thomas, GoodToBeBadGirl is a few of the people who were there), and dancing around in the wild snow that appeared.

lordimemories31lordimemroies33lordimemories5 lordimemories4 lordimemories3lordimemories20

It has been yelling inapropriate things on trains in Germany (Lichtenfels), living like royals in the large rooms and finding questionable pig-porn art in the middle of the townsquare.

lordimemories7lordimemories8

 

It has been walking along an Italian highway (Rome & Milano) for so long your feet are bleeding in a 30 degree heat, only to hours later crack your knee on the stone stairs forcing you to jump on one leg for the rest of the stay. This Italy trip was a basic nightmare from start to finish, with the questionable drivers on the first night, the hotelroom who all of a sudden lost all lights, and not to mention the hell in getting home – took us 36 hours because of a train accident. The trip from Hell.

lordimemories9 lordimemories10lordimemroies11

It has been witnessing the coolest of releasegigs, spending the late night in the hotelroom with Soooophie, eeesti999_ and Anthalerero talking about everything and nothing ’til 4am in the morning, meeting up with Monstermaniacs from all over the place.

DSC_1762 DSC_1775DSC_1753 DSC_1747 LORDI 293

It has been a spontaneous trip to Germany (Frankfurt) where we couldn’t even feel our legs because of the cold, and a four day stay in Spain(Madrid) where we had the most questionable of hotel rooms – It was a large square with Jesus on the cross on the wall, two beds, high roof and a sink. It felt like we were in a horror movie.

lordimemroies12lordimemories13lordimemories18 lordimemories17

It has been going through a damp and cold English harbor village (Southampton) where we randomly offered this guy chocolate cake, because why not? And it was probably the best decision made ever, seeing that is how we met Nathan. It has been traveling to beautiful Brighton living in a hotelroom that was made for Royals.

lordimemories16lordimemories19

And not to mention: That one day we threw Mr L completely off his game at Sabaton Open Air! All hail us, the Swedish Lordi Crew: Paula, Hanna, Michelle, Me, Ludvig and Jonathan.

lordimemories37

lordimemories38

lordimg

lordimemories36lordimemories3511051795_10152652109346105_7693999322287423184_n

Thanks to Lordi, I’ve gotten to experience some of the most treasured moments with my best friends. Like the New Year Celebration in 2012, where a group of Lordi fans (PEML94, GoodToBeBadGirl, Thomas, FlameCurry and me) gathered at GTBBG and celebrated the new year together.

lordimemroies24lordimemories25lordimemories26lordimemroies27

It was been those “GroupieBFF’s” weeks where we have just randomly gone somewhere. It has been all those nights spent with The Awesome Threesome, where we went to bed at eight in the morning and spent all the night recording stupid videos about seigemenn and superdupermegamojängen. One of my favorite memory is the Tuska weekend. Ten years after The Arockalypse tour, I was allowed to witness almost the same identical set with Sophie and Nathan under the burning Helsinki sun. That day, and the whole weekend was amazingly perfect in a way that I can do nothing but smile when I think about it. Even with the pepperspray.

lordimemroies32lordimemories30 lordimemories29 lordimemories28lordimemories23 lordimemories22 lordimemories21 lordimemroies14lordifans

13608110_10153549589776105_837499847_nlordiexhibit2lordiexhibit6lordiexhibit17

As you can see, you who read this… Being a Lordi fan has been so much more than just simply liking their music and going to a show here and there. I practically owe my life to this band. It’s because of them that I’ve gotten to experience all the amazing stuff that I have, and I couldn’t even thank them enough for all of it. And all of you who were mentioned in this, I thank all of you for in one way or another, making these years the best.

lordimemories34

And here’s to the next ten years: May they be as amazing as these first have been!

// Sara

Leave a comment »

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »